A bold, pine-smoked loose leaf Lapsang Souchong with deep campfire richness, dark malt, and a clean, lingering finish. Big flavour. Zero faff.
The flavour
Bold, alluring and heady, Emperor Butterfly delivers classic Lapsang Souchong character without harshness: think warm pine smoke, toasted oak, treacle edges and a hint of leather. The liquor pours deep copper; the smoke opens to gentle sweetness as it cools.
Why you’ll love it
- Authentic smoke: Traditionally pine-smoked black tea from Fujian, China.
- Rich & complex: Resinous pine, oak, cocoa husk, and a touch of dried fruit.
- Smooth, not ashy: Full-bodied and rounded, with a clean aftertaste.
- Versatile: Beautiful neat; also superb with a splash of milk or as a winter latte.
Origin & craft
- Region: Fujian Province, China (Wuyi area)
- Style: Zhengshan Xiaozhong (Lapsang Souchong) – large, mature leaves.
- Process: Withered and oxidised black tea leaves are gently smoked over pine wood, layering aroma without overpowering the leaf.
Brewing guide
Western style
- 2–2.5g per 250ml
- 95–100°C (freshly boiled)
- 2–3 minutes
- Infusions: up to 3 (slightly longer each round)
Gongfu (richer, shorter steeps)
- 5g per 120ml gaiwan/teapot
- 95–100°C
- 20–25s, then +5–10s each infusion (6–8 infusions)
Milk? Optional. Start neat to taste the smoke; add a splash of milk or oat for a rounded, campfire-cocoa vibe.
Pair it with
Smoked cheddar, dark chocolate, roast mushrooms, venison, or a square of ginger cake. For cocktails: Lapsang old fashioned or a smoky hot toddy.
Ingredients - Premium smoked black tea.
Caffeine - Medium. Great afternoon warmer; ideal by the fire.
Storage - Keep airtight, cool and dark.
FAQs
Is Lapsang Souchong naturally smoky?
Yes—the smoke comes from pine-wood firing, not flavouring oils.
How smoky is this one?
Decisively smoky but balanced—depth without acrid bitterness.
Can I add milk or sugar?
Yes. It’s excellent neat; a splash of milk softens the edges for a malty, campfire cup.
What’s the difference between Lapsang and Russian Caravan?
Russian Caravan blends often include Lapsang but are less smoky and more malty. Emperor Butterfly is a pure smoked black tea.
Cold brew?
Surprisingly good: 8g per 1L cold water, 8–10 hours in the fridge; strain. Clean, smoky-sweet.
